Men are not sexy! While many women may disagree with this statement, there is nothing sexy about a hairy chest, sweaty armpits or burping. No matter how well a costume or outfit is made, no man is going to pull off a sexy outfit that manages to arouse others in the room.

On the flip side, costumes for women have become increasingly sexier over time. With each year that passes it seems less and less fabric is being used to make the outfits. Even something such as a firefighter costume for women is made in such a way that there is more leg showing than body covered. So, finding a generically sexy costume for women has become incredibly easy.

So what are 6 of the sexiest costumes of all time?

1. Chun Li – anyone that grew up in the ‘80s or ‘90s remembers Chun Li as one of the first sexy video game characters. With her giant thighs that could crush a human head, Chun Li established herself as the attractive cartoon Street Fighter that was quick enough to beat even Ryu. Her outfit is both revealing and unique and any woman that can pull off a Chun Li outfit is going to turn more than a few heads.

2. The Honey Bee – This outfit’s sexiness is a surprise to everyone. No one knows why it has such a tremendous fan following, but somehow dressing up as a bee with tiny antennae, a striped black and white shirt and a short yellow skirt with high heels seems to be high on everyone’s list.

3. French Maid – If you don’t know, you never will!

4. Supergirl – Many people mistake Supergirl for Wonder Woman, but they are not the same thing. Supergirl outfits have been made to be essentially thin blue leather bikinis with a yellow “S” on the front and a short red cape. This is not the best costume to wear in cold weather, but you’ll never hear any guys complaining.

5. Princess Leia - This is considered the sexiest costume of all time for those that grew up in the Star Wars generation. Princess Leia was every man’s fantasy and if the people going to your party or event are in their mid-30s or 40s, you can bet that this will be the most coveted costume.

6. I Dream of Jeannie – Finally, one of the sexiest costumes of all time is one of the most classic. The I Dream of Jeannie costume was taboo back when the show came out and today, it has lost even more fabric; the bellybutton is always showing and the “wishes” have gotten more sexual. Every guy’s fantasy is to have an attractive female genie at his side and this costume gets the guys one step closer to that dream.

It’s happening more and more frequently - people dress up in costumes that end up looking like they have been thrown together at the last minute. The result is a costume that, while it may cover their entire body, is missing many of the subtle touches and nuances that turn a good disguise idea into a great one. Since it’s the smaller details that make a costume that much more memorable, here are five accessories that shouldn’t be forgotten if you intend to make an impression on Halloween or at your next costume party.

1. Shoes - Too many costume aficionados assemble a great outfit but neglect to make preparations for their feet, opting to wear normal shoes with the disguise. Fact is, shoes are one of the first things that a person notices when they see someone for the first time, and this is especially true for costumes. If your outfit is a top to bottom look, but you’re wearing standard tennis shoes, the costume will inevitably suffer. Stay true to your character and find the appropriate footwear for your costume, just make sure that whatever shoes you choose are comfortable because chances are you’ll need them for more than a few hours that night.

2. Jewelry - Selecting the most appropriate costume jewelry doesn’t have to be difficult to get the point across. Depending on the intended disguise, sometimes the right jewelry can be as small as a ring or tiara. Other times a gaudy necklace with a giant pendant is necessary to fit the bill. Think of the look you’re trying to convey and shop accordingly. Don’t be afraid to invest in a nice accessory if you plan on wearing your costume multiple times because if you choose wisely, your outfit is sure to benefit from it. However, if budget is an issue, go with novelty plastic over etched metal out of practicality. No one is going to fault you or your costume if you at least make an attempt to accessorize in the spirit of the character.

3. Weapons - If your costume subject is known to brandish a particular weapon, then that look is obviously incomplete without it. No pirate is going to be without a sword to hold in their teeth as they swing through the air, just as no devil should be without his pitchfork. Invest in a few extra weapons and you can mix and match to assemble a complete costume. Parents may want to reconsider a soldier costume for children if you have an aversion to your children playing with toy guns.

4. Capes - Sometimes, as in the case of Superman, a cape is a mandatory accessory. Other times, like an Elvis Presley costume, the costume works without one but can be even better if you’re wearing that classic white cape outfitted with some sparkling studs. Then there’s the notion that a cape regardless of the outfit just makes everything all the more festive. It’s safe to say that if the costume calls for it or you just feel like wearing one, a cape helps complete the look.

5. Wings - Determining when you’ll need to add wings is a little more precise. Insects, birds, and fairies of course need them but it’s also possible that wings can be a good springboard if you’re unsure of a costume idea. Try on a pair of wings and use your imagination…the sky’s the limit!

Costumes and accessories go hand in hand. They can be the difference between a forgettable disguise and a memorable outfit, perhaps even one worthy of winning big prizes at a costume party. Anyone can dress as Harry Potter, but not everyone is going to remember to wear his Quidditch goggles. We hope that before you put together your next look for Halloween, a school play, or any other dress-up event you’ll remember to include appropriate accessories; they’ll definitely help your costume reach its full potential.

With the whole buzz going on about the upcoming Presidential election, most Americans are eager to show their support in one way or another. Let’s face it, whether Democrat, Republican, Green, Libertarian, Non-Partisan, or other party we’re pretty sure you have at least some interest in what will happen come November. For now, let’s put all the serious business about the politicians aside and focus on a different way to show your electoral spirit. Political costumes are just about perfect this season for both costume get-togethers and campaigning. With only 5 days between Halloween and the general election, you’ll hardly need to wear anything else. Here are six political costume ideas we’re voting for:

1. Presidential Masks – Choose from Richard Nixon, Bill Clinton, John F. Kennedy, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Ronald Reagan, and George Bush, among several others. Memorize the inaugural oath for some good party conversation.

2. Dudley the Donkey – Inspired by a nickname for Andrew Jackson coined by his opponents, and first used in print in 1837, this mascot for the Democratic Party has quite a distinctive look. Depending on how much work you want to do this costume can be quite the endeavor. Might we suggest the Democrat Donkey Hat and some dark shoelaces or a black wig for the tail?

3. GOP Elephant – Since the famous 1874 political cartoon, this pachyderm has been the mascot for all things Republican. Again, a costume of this magnitude has the potential to be a big project. Fortunately the Republican Elephant Hat comes through and does most of the work, all you need is a rotund body with grey shirt and pillow and a belt tail.

4. Uncle Sam – The national personification of the United States whose image was first depicted in an illustration in 1852. He has an obvious resemblance to US Presidents Andrew Jackson and Abraham Lincoln and is usually seen as an elderly man with white hair and goatee wearing a top hat designed with the red, white and blue theme of the US flag..

5. Civil War Soldiers – Pick a side, Northern or Southern and go from there. Union wore blue uniforms and the Confederates wore grey. Attach a variety of pins on your shirt and shoulders depending on how high of a rank you want for the character.

6. Statue of Liberty – Arguably the most recognizable icon of the USA, otherwise known as “Liberty Enlightening the World” was a gift to the American people from France in 1886. The statue is a woman wearing a long robe and a headdress with several points, holding up a lighted torch on her right hand and a book on her left. We recommend a long green tablecloth and liberty foam headpiece

Political Costumes are timely and topical this time of year. Wearing one may even inspire someone to visit the polls when they otherwise wouldn’t. With so many reasons to wear them, there’s really only one thing to do: Vote Political Costumes in 2008!

We’re in the dog days of summer, but with plenty of evening activities happening outdoors around town, this is also a perfect opportunity to teach children about safety in preparation for Halloween night. A favorite holiday for adults and kids alike, Halloween is that special time where revelers can dress up as their favorite character and collect goodies from around the neighborhood. However, it must be remembered that Halloween can be a very dangerous night for child pedestrians. Children are often so excited to be out on the streets with friends collecting sweets and gifts that they forget the important rules of trick-or-treating. As a parent, you should know how to keep your kids safe while having fun on and around Halloween. Teaching them a pointer or two each day while you have their undivided attention will benefit everyone as Halloween night approaches.

Here are nine lessons to teach your kids before Halloween night:

1. Talk to your kids about the basic rules of traffic, especially when they are crossing the street. Remind them to always stop at every corner. They should only cross streets at intersections and crosswalks. Tell them to always look left and right before crossing the street and continue looking both ways while crossing. They shouldn’t dart out into the street or cross between parked cars.

2. Tell your kids to walk and not to run while trick or treating. This will prevent the children from tripping on their or a friend’s costume. They should walk on sidewalks and not on the road.

3. If your kids are 12 years and older, when they usually prefer not to be accompanied by adults, remind them to go with a group that you are familiar with. Phone calls between parents of the group will help keep everyone informed of the kids’ location while they are out having fun.

4. Instruct your kids to go only to familiar areas and take a route that you have helped map out with them. Be sure to set a time for them to return home so no one is left worrying about when they will get back.

5. Avoid houses that are difficult to access, especially ones where they don’t know the people living there. Barking dogs are also an indication that the property might not be safe. If they come across any houses such as these, they should just move on to the next one.

6. Teach them to be always polite and say “trick or treat” and “thank you” after they have received the goodies. Tell them to patiently wait in a line if other kids are there before them. They should never push just to get in front.

7. Have them carry and use a flashlight while out on the streets. Tell them to go trick-or-treating only at homes with an illuminated porch or outside lights. Instruct them to just stand outside the door and never go inside. If the people inside a house insist on them going inside, they should leave and report back to you what happened.

8. Older kids can bring cell phones, so tell them to immediately call you if they see any suspicious people or vehicles. They should also find crossing guards or other parents with children to assist them if there is a problem.

9. Teach your kids to never accept candy, rides, or anything from people they don’t know. They should not eat the goodies they have collected. They should wait until they have gone back home, and after you have inspected all the candy for them.

Halloween night is fun and exciting for everyone but children’s safety is the primary concern. Keep the lessons listed above in mind and have your children learn them. They’ll help to keep your kids safe and you’ll feel confident that they will go return home without a scratch—only with big smiles and bundles of goodies.

Attending costume parties for holidays such as Halloween, Easter, St. Patrick’s Day, 4th of July, New Year’s Eve, Christmas, and other celebrations can be a strain on whatever disguise you decide to wear. Kids in particular are very excited about the whole process and this enthusiasm often results in necessary repairs to the outfits. However, steps can be taken so that the costumes are safe to wear more than just once. Kids costumes obviously cannot be a fire hazard nor an obstruction while moving around, and should be resilient enough to withstand normal wear and tear over the course of the night. Accordingly, adult costumes should also remain intact even after a lot of dancing and activities during the party.

Here are 6 tricks to keep your costume in one piece before, during, and after your event:

1. Prior to wearing, make sure that buttons, clasps and zippers are working and sewn well on your costumes. If any of these become dislodged and you don’t have time to sew them back on, keep a no-sew fabric glue at hand for temporary stitches. The no-sew glue is also useful for keeping hems on skirts or pants in place if you don’t have time to sew them to the right size.

2. Should a thread on your costume become loose and you fear that it will unravel parts of your clothes, use hairspray over the thread to keep it in place. If the costume requires you to wear pantyhose but you accidentally get a run on it, once again hairspray will help prevent it from continuing to run.

3. If your clothes are too loose or some stitches are removed, don’t be afraid to rely on the trusty and dependable safety pin. Safety pins can definitely keep your clothes intact and can even be used to add highlights or designs to costumes such as a mummy or Baby New Year.

4. Wearing a sexy costume? Avoid showing too much skin or letting the clothes slide down your shoulders by using double adhesive or double-sided tape. Specially made double-sided tape for clothes is available to keep your outfit intact without ruining the fabric.

5. Velcro is another way to keep your costume well-fitted and intact under strenuous situations. It can also be glued on if sewing is not an option.

6. Hair pins, clips or nets can help you keep headdresses, tiaras, crowns, and any headgear that goes with your costume in place.

Wearing a costume successfully requires keeping it in place and intact even after hours of dancing, walking, or participating in games and activities. Try a few of these tips and your costume will stand the test of time for years to come.

If you’re the kind of person who doesn’t want to get stressed over finding an elaborate outfit for Halloween or a theme party, then a one-piece costume is probably the best choice. A one-piece costume can be something as easy as a hair piece, wig, mask, or shirt, if you pick the right one. All you need to do is decide what you want to wear while also adhering to the theme of the party, if there is one. Another alternative is to make your own one-piece costume.

Here are some one-piece costume ideas to consider for your next Halloween or theme party:

1. Black Hooded Robe – A Halloween classic, you can go as a witch or warlock, Voldemort or a Death Eater from the Harry Potter series, a demon, or the ever popular grim reaper.

2. Kimono – Perfect for a geisha or Japanese warrior.

3. Laboratory Coat – It’s Alive! For scientist or doctor costumes.

4. White or Black Choir Robe/Gown – Hallelujah! Sing the praises as a church choir member, priest, or angel.

5. Overalls – Become a mechanic or farmhand without breaking a sweat.

6. Hospital Gown –If you want to open some eyes around the party, leave the back flap open!

7. Sports Mascot Suit – Root on your favorite team! These are usually one piece costumes.

8. Straight Jacket – Good for either an escaped mental patient or Harry Houdini look.

9. Masks – Take your pick and transform into anything from a US President, monster, animal or cartoon character.

10. Toga – Go Greek as an ancient warrior or John Belushi’s character from Animal House.

11. Superhero - Up, up and away! These can often be found as a one-piece.

12. Black Leather Jacket – Toughen up as a 1950s greaser or motorcycle rider.

13. Mardi Gras Mask – Let the good times roll! Just add bead necklaces for a little extra fun.

14. Gorilla Suit – Without a head/mask, you’re a science experiment gone awry.

Remember, a costume is what you make of it. Any of these one-piece outfits are great choices for Halloween or your next theme party. Of course, adding an accessory or two may help to improve the costume but as this list goes to show, sometimes less is more.

It’s no secret; some costumes are a definite “blah” without makeup. Experienced costumers know that makeup is highly effective in accentuating the character that you’re trying to play. In fact, dressing in a somewhat plain wardrobe but wearing high-quality makeup might be all you need to stand out and impress in a fantasy guise. For those concerned about their costume budget, homemade makeup recipes are a great way to save some money if you have a little extra time. Most importantly, the makeup you wear must be safe and easy to apply.

Here are eight tips for costume makeup that will help you prepare for Halloween, Mardi Gras, or an upcoming costume party:

1. Looking Old – Costume makeup can make you look decades older, whether you plan to be a grandma, grandpa, or other aging character. This effect is usually created by applying the base makeup all over your face and neck first. You can then make a crumpled expression to show the natural wrinkles on your face by first applying lighter makeup (lighter than your skin tone). Afterwards, relax your face and fill in the creases using brown eyeliner pencil. Sunken cheeks can be created using dark makeup on your cheek hollows. Put the same kind of makeup on your hands to complete your aged look.

2. Fake Blood and Bruises – Fake blood can be made at home using water, red, blue & yellow food coloring, and white corn syrup. These ingredients must then be mixed together until it is thick enough to slide down any part of your body. However, avoid getting this on any of your good clothes since it will stain. For bruises, use deep blue eye shadow, black or dark gray eye shadow, and glittery green powder eye shadow. These should be applied by blotting then smudging to complete the bruised look.

3. Fake Warts and Scabs – Fake warts or moles can be created using whole peppercorns, corn syrup or eyelash glue, hair bristles, and non-toxic water colors or paint. Glue the peppercorns to your face and avoid placing them on or near your eyes using the corn syrup or eyelash glue. Hold it in place as it dries then glue the hair and color them. Fake scabs can be created using cornmeal, corn syrup, red or brown makeup, and gelatin. Apply a thin coat of corn syrup over your skin in whatever shape you want your scab to look like, and gently cover it with a thick layer of cornmeal. Let it dry then use the makeup to color it. Cover the “scab” with the gelatin to set and seal it in place.

4. Vampire – The vampire look is easy to accomplish. All you need is to cover your face with white makeup then outline your eyebrows, and fill them with black makeup. Draw several lines on your face using red and brown makeup, and outline your eyes. Apply fake blood at the edges of your mouth to complete this look.

5. Clown – To create a clown’s face, cover your entire face and neck (optional) with white makeup then make a big smile using red lipstick. Add additional highlights or characteristics to your clown look.

6. Witch – To create this look, cover your face with green or white makeup and follow the procedure on the “old” look mentioned on tip number 1 and the fake warts on tip number 3 in this article.

7. Fake Burns and Flesh Wounds – Use ground makeup, charcoal, petroleum jelly, and tissue paper to create fake burns. On the other hand, fake flesh wounds can be made using petroleum jelly, red food coloring, baking cocoa powder, and tissue.

8. Fake Intestines and Other Internal Organs –For fake intestines, use a pair of panty hose or stockings filled with cotton or cloth. Twist at randomly, stitch them up and soak in fake blood. Hang them from a torn bloodied shirt.

Using a bit of effort and imagination, as well as some household items, makeup can quickly transform your costume from blah to bravo. Do you have some tips for homemade makeup you’d like to share with our readers? Join in the discussion by posting a reply below!

Throwing a social party for friends or arranging a loved one’s birthday celebration always has the potential to become a rather stressful endeavor. Preparing a kids party is perhaps even more challenging and can be downright mind-boggling when you don’t have all your creative juices flowing. If you find yourself running low on fantastic ideas, here are 10 suggestions on themes for your next party:

1. Hannah Montana Party – With millions of children adoring the Disney singing sensation, every kid will have a blast celebrating their birthday with this theme. You can even dress up your daughter as Hannah or Lilly and have a videoke singing contest / performance with their favorite songs from the show!

2. Pirate Party – Ever since Johnny Depp played Captain Jack Sparrow in the blockbuster film series Pirates of the Caribbean, attending costume parties dressed as a swashbuckling salty dog has returned to style. Why not indulge in the pirate’s life a bit further? A treasure hunt is certain to spice things up; just use your imagination on the items guests will have to find

3. Car Racing Party – Young boys (and some girls too) love to dress up like race car drivers and the pit crew. You can even have activities using remote controlled cars to make the party more exciting. Why not host your party on the day of a televised NASCAR or funny car race to get adults into the spirit too?

4. Superhero Party – It’s no secret that children and adults love going to parties dressed up as superheroes. The sky’s the limit with so many superhero options to choose from. Superman, Spiderman, Batman, Iron Man, Incredible Hulk and Wolverine are all great looks, or you can also have the whole Justice League, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Transformers, the Avengers, or X-Men join the party if you’re looking for a group outfit.

5. Western Party - Cowboys and Indians are long-standing classics when in search of that perfect costume idea. A few accessories like lassos and teepee tents will provide the right decoration to your party location. If it’s within budget, you can even have a horse or a pony that everyone can ride.

6. Mardi Gras Party – On the occasion of a party for adults, a Mardi Gras theme would fit the bill for a lot of fun. New Orleans costumes or masks should be required, along with lots of beads and dancing throughout the night.

7. Prince or Princess Party – Children will gladly dress up as their favorite prince or princess whether fictional or otherwise. Young girls in particular will be thrilled as they pretend to be Princess Jasmine, Cinderella, The Little Mermaid Ariel, Snow White, and Belle, to name a few. As for the guys, they can be Prince Charming, Aladdin, or even a kissable frog. The possibilities are endless

8. Crayola Party – Use brightly colored decorations at your party location as well as on the food you will be serving. Of course, the activities will involve coloring pictures with crayons. Costumes should be strictly colorful with no monochromes allowed.

9. Hollywood Party – Dress up as a favorite celebrity and prepare a red carpet affair for your guests. Don’t forget to have everyone take their pictures in one area of the party as they enter to properly replicate the red carpet eexperience. Invite hosts Joan and Melissa Rivers or Ryan Seacrest if they’re available that night.

10. Luau Party – Who could possibly get tired of luaus? This festive party can be held any time of the year. Mix some tropical fruit drinks, listen to Hawaiian music, and eat tropically-themed food. Don’t forget the grass skirts and leis.

Go ahead and put these ten terrific themes to use. You’re guaranteed hours of fun wherever the party may be!

When your child reaches the age of 2-3 years old, they start to recognize many of the things that they have been encountering in the world. Their personal preferences are developing and individual tastes are maturing from simple enjoyment of anything you happen to give them.

This should be kept in mind when you are thinking of costume ideas for a toddler. Generic costumes are not always the best choice as your toddler is now old enough to recognize their friends’ characters and wonder why they too are not dressed as someone or something that they like.

At the same time, your child is still young enough that, as a parent, taking hundreds of pictures of him or her in an adorable costume is a great thrill. While your child may like Bob the Builder, if they do not look cute in a Bob the Builder outfit, your photographic memories may suffer as a result.

That is why some of the best costumes for toddlers are those that incorporate things that they like into something that you want to see your child in.

1. Sesame Street
Various characters on Sesame Street are one way to satisfy both of these needs. If your child is a fan of Sesame Street then they will be overjoyed to dress like Elmo or Cookie Monster.
This works out for you as well, because an Elmo costume can be one of the most adorable apparel items on the planet as it covers your child from head to toe in a giant suit that resembles footsie pajamas.

2. Winnie the Pooh
Several characters from the popular children’s series Winnie the Pooh make for perfect toddler costumes. Having your child wear an Eeyore outfit is a great way to keep them happy and seeing your child adorably dressed as the giant plush donkey is sure to bring a smile to your face as well. Similarly, the giant round head of Winnie the Pooh himself is sure to make some phenomenal pictures and may even prevent your toddler from hurting themselves thanks to all that additional honey fat padding.

3. Super Heroes
In addition to creating a spectacular costume look, super hero outfits will allow your child to role play with friends or by themselves. There are numerous Spider-Man, Superman, and Batgirl costumes available that are not just photogenic, but also make fun and functional clothes to wear when your child insists on dressing up with friends at home.

Dressing your toddler up in a costume can satisfy both you and the child, if the right outfit is chosen. Finding a character costume that your child chooses and enjoys does not mean that you have to sacrifice precious photographs. Best of all, when your child gets older you can show the photos of them in the Elmo suit, no matter how embarrassing, because you’re able to honestly say that your child wanted it. When you choose an ideal toddler costume, it’s guaranteed to be a win-win situation for years to come.

Independence Day is a holiday celebrated annually in America on July 4th to commemorate our freedom from British rule. It is a joyful summer day filled with parties, picnics, barbecues, carnivals, and fireworks. This holiday’s festivities are commonly held outdoors with family, friends, and neighbors. Fourth of July parties are often celebrated using different themes that focus on specific elements of United States history and tradition.

Make this year’s Independence Day celebration the best one yet with the help of these ten ideas for a festive 4th of July:

1. Plan your activities in advance for the celebration of Independence Day. Decide whether you want it to be an intimate family affair or a party with friends and neighbors as well.

2. If it’s a family event, share all the activities you will be doing with the group. This may include attending parades, going to the park to watch fireworks, and visiting different parties in town that you’ve been invited to. If everyone is aware of the day’s schedule, they can prepare accordingly for the fun.

3. To make the day even more special, plan to dress up with a red, white, and blue costume theme and bring along Independence Day accessories such as flags, balloons, or hats.

4. If you plan to host a party, prepare at least a week before the celebration. Jot down in advance everything that you’ll need including food, decorations, and other details such as whether you’ll have a costume party and if the party will be held indoors or outdoors.

5. Prepare and send out invitations to make your July 4th party more special. Indicate whether the party is potluck and whether they should BYOB (bring your own BBQ/beer).

6. Decorate your home with flags, lights, and balloons. Party tables can be covered in red, white, and blue tablecloths. Floral centerpieces and decorative appetizers also add to the party. Prepare safe fireworks like sparklers that you can light in the evening to make your celebration more festive.

7. If you plan to have a barbecue, prepare a menu that follows your party’s theme or rely on the traditional all-American menu. This includes grilled chicken, beef, pork, hot dogs, and hamburgers. You can also serve fried chicken, salad, pasta, and, of course, apple pie for dessert. Cakes or other sweet treats can be decorated with red, white, and blue colors, the American flag, or Uncle Sam’s hat.

8. You can also try to be creative by using red, white, and blue candles, light bulbs or colored lamps at different spots around the party. Strobe lights can also be an add-on for a lively party or even a disco ball for a 1970s July 4th celebration.

9. Music that fits your theme and mood can contribute greatly to the enjoyment of your celebration. Choose songs that can be appreciated by adults and kids alike. Patriotic music can also help set the tone for America’s holiday.

10. Prepare games and activities for everyone to enjoy such as ball tosses, trivia contests, and singing. Don’t forget to give everyone something to take home with them as a remembrance of your festive Fourth of July celebration such small flags or pins.